Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma were among the dignitaries who attended the 25th wedding anniversary of Pastors Biodun and Modele Fatoyinbo of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA).
The event, held in Abuja, also celebrated Biodun Fatoyinbo’s 50th birthday, attracting prominent political figures, religious leaders, and legal luminaries.
Notable attendees included Anyim Pius Anyim, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation; Ibe Kachikwu, former Minister of State for Petroleum; and Stanley Ifeanyi Uzochukwu, Chairman of Stanel Group.
Religious leaders present at the celebration included Pastor Mary Abioye (formerly of Living Faith Church), Archbishop JohnPraise Daniel, and Pastor Bolaji Idowu of Harvesters International.
The celebration featured speeches from notable personalities, including Obasanjo, who humorously referred to Anyim as his “boss,” acknowledging the influence the Senate had during his tenure.
He remarked, “During the times I was in government, he served as the Senate President. If I sent a bill to the National Assembly, unless it had the support of the Senate President, my bill might not be passed. So I had to regard him as my elder to ensure my bill could be passed. Hence, I now refer to him as my boss.”
Addressing the couple, the former president said: “You have now set a new standard regarding Jubilee. Twenty-five years in Jubilee, as mentioned in the Bible. So, every Jubilee, every 25 years, you must renew your power and purpose in your marriage. If I had my way, then every marriage in Nigeria that has reached 25 years should have what we call new vows and a renewed purpose.
“Now, as for the next event, 25 years from now, I wish you well in advance. As you know, I may not be able to attend—not because I am unwell, but simply because I will be elsewhere permanently.”
Representing former President Goodluck Jonathan, ex-Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim extended his congratulations to the couple.
He stated, “If former President Goodluck Jonathan were here physically, I believe he would say that President Olusegun Obasanjo will speak for the former presidents. On behalf of former President Goodluck Jonathan, I am humbled to congratulate you and your wife, and indeed your entire family, on this milestone.”
Legal expert Mike Ozekhome praised the couple’s dedication to faith, while senior lawyer Alex Izinyon commended their positive impact on society.
“You have touched lives; your family has made a significant impact over the past 25 years. Keep on doing what you are doing. Do not grow weary in doing good. I pray that you and your family will continue to flourish from glory to glory,” Izinyon said.
Renowned clergy such as Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo and Pastor Paul Enenche also spoke, offering prayers and blessings for the couple.
Ashimolowo advised, “You must always remember that this woman stands by your side, not at your feet. You have responsibilities in this union; you have a spiritual obligation. I want you to wear this ring as your helmet. It must never signify dominance but always serve as a reminder of faith and love—a love that never fails and is never puffed up.”
The ceremony incorporated various traditional and religious elements, including the renewal of marriage vows, the exchange of rings symbolising eternal love, and prayers for continued unity.
The couple reaffirmed their commitment to each other, with Biodun Fatoyinbo emphasising the spiritual significance of their union and Modele Fatoyinbo pledging lifelong devotion.
“According to the word of God, I submit myself to you as your wife continually, from this moment onward. We shall continue to be one,” Mrs. Fatoyinbo declared.
The event also highlighted the importance of milestone celebrations, with Obasanjo humorously suggesting that marriages in Nigeria reaching 25 years should mark the occasion with renewed vows and purpose.
The presence of two former presidents elevated the gathering to an international status, underscoring the couple’s influence beyond Nigeria.
With music from renowned gospel artists such as Mercy Chinwo and Chris Morgan, alongside prayers and a grand atmosphere, the ceremony exemplified love, faith, and enduring commitment, leaving guests inspired and uplifted.
